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21 Oct, 2024 by Ginnie wise
This is the only law group you need to consider for your personal injury. The entire team is very personable and they always get back to you in a timely manner. They do the right thing and fight for you as a client. They don't settle for less than when it comes to you, and go above and beyond. I chose this firm based on Google reviews and it was one of the best decisions I've made in a long time!
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18 Oct, 2024 by Ernest area
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29 Sep, 2024 by Muniyandi durairaj
Look no further than Ryan Law Group. Drew Ryan and his whole team are some of the nicest and most knowledgeable people I know. I called several other firms first, but didn't like the vibe I was getting from them, but these guys were great. ✅✅
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09 Sep, 2020 by Nathaniel
Not to knock my Public Defender, but she had already written me off after a 90 second conversation, and told me I should plead guilty to a deal without asking more than 3 questions. I almost just accepted this, but knew I wasn’t guilty and decided not to be a victim of the system built to protect me. I first called Decio to ask his opinion on my case, and I immediately felt he was invested in finding out the full details and did not jump to any conclusions. After our brief 10 minute phone discussion, he laid out a few ways he thought the case could go, but offered to meet in person the same day to provide a more in depth assessment. We met at his office, which is very warm and welcoming, and went to a private conference room where for about 30 mins he and I discussed the case, after which he told me how he thought he could best fight the case for me, and that all hope was not lost as the Public Defender had made me feel at my initial hearing. His confidence in me and what I was telling him convinced me he was going to be not only my best chance at a fair outcome, but to deal with someone who looked at me as an individual, not just another case number to get through. Throughout the case, Decio personally reached out to me at least a dozen times to keep me up to speed, to ask for meetings, info, etc.... I never once had to go looking for him. When he explained something over the phone that I just wasn’t sure or clear about, he always invited me to come meet at the office to work through things, always reassuring. The longer our relationship grew, the more I could feel him becoming personally attached to my outcome, and it really felt like I had someone on my team who wanted not only the best outcome for the case, but for my life moving forward in general. If you’re on the fence about whether to hire a private attorney, I can’t say enough good things about my experience with Decio, and am so very certain now making the call to him changed the path my life was headed. With the public defender, I’d be living the rest of my life with a conviction and the stigma and shame for something I wasn’t guilty of. With Decio, NO CONVICTION, CASE DISMISSED! And also, just as important, I don’t feel like a helpless civilian who can be railroaded into guilt, I know that if you have the right help, you can push back! Thank you again for everything Decio!
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23 Apr, 2019 by Steve j
Beyond grateful for Decio Rangel’s legal help. When I initially called Decio, he was calming, professional, and was able to urgently schedule an appointment to see us. We retained both Decio and Mark for our case. Throughout the procedure Decio was always available and reachable upon any questions we had. He walks that extra mile for his clients and really shows that he genuinely cared. He took initiative to contact the law enforcement to handle all legal aspects of our case. Our case was dismissed thanks to Decio and Mark. Great attorneys and I would highly recommend this office for anyone in need of a attorney.
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26 Mar, 2019 by Christine
Sou brasileira e estava com muita dificuldade em encontrar alguém para me esclarecer algumas coisas sobre o problema que estava enfrentando, já estava desistindo de procurar quando decidi tentar uma vez mais fiz uma pesquisa no Google e encontrei essa pessoa maravilhosa que é o advogado Décio. Fui ao seu escritório e para minha surpresa ele fala português o que facilitou muito para mim. Recomendo e muito seus serviços, um profissional sério, comprometido e honesto. Décio muito obrigada pela sua atenção. Cinco estrelas não são suficientes para avaliar Décio Rangel Jr.
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03 Aug, 2022 by Mike
David did a great job on our case. He is hard working and most importantly, he cares about his client. Highly recommended.
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08 Oct, 2019 by Richard
After several frustrated attempts with previous attorneys , David Paquin is the only one that lifted a big load off my shoulders. He is a compassionate listener and very intelligent professional attorney. I would recommend him not once but 1000 times !!
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19 Mar, 2019 by Melissa
I would reccomend this attorney. David Paquin helped my cousin when he was in A really touph situation. He has a release date and we are all happy and blessed. My Family & i want to thank Paquin for his patience and time with these long two years its been. God bless.
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24 Sep, 2020 by David
Ms. Budris helped me to plow into the messy files of the LAPD and discover that there was no current bench warrant for my significant other. I had tried many other attorneys and PIs over the last few years with no success. The stress of this possible warrant, along with the COVID situation and constant home and online invasions was leading her close to suicide. Ms. Budris refused payment. It had appeared to me that kindness/lawyer was oxymoronic, but there are a few good and capable attorneys out there. She is definitely one!
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31 Mar, 2020 by Keith
I was having custody issues with my ex and going through a nasty divorce. I ended up getting arrested as my ex was trying to get leverage in our case and charged with a misdemeanor dv. I immediately went to Lisa's office and I will tell you she is a blessing! Not only was she very sympathetic but she also took the initiative right away. The experience overall was amazing. I felt so confident with Lisa having my back due to her experience, knowledge and handling of the case. Throughout the whole case Lisa maintained great communication and was constantly updating me with everything going on. This woman saved my life. I truly recommend her. You will not be disappointed! If you're looking for someone you can trust Lisa is your best bet! Do not play with your freedom!
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04 Sep, 2018 by Lucas
Lisa is worth every penny, she saved my life. I've never navigated the legal system in any capacity before this month and she was patient and attentive in getting me and my family through what has been, without question, the hardest month of my life. Lisa got my felony dropped. I was looking at jail time and a permanent record. My bail was astronomical. In the time between my arrest and arraignment, Lisa seemingly worked all hours of day and night to insure all the evidence of my case was thoroughly understood by the presiding D.A. Thanks to Lisa, I can move on with my life. If you're in a scary situation, hire Lisa. I know what it's like to feel torn between options, confused, uncertain of who to hire when it's so high stakes; hire Lisa. I'm telling you earnestly, if you want to get through this as whole as you possibly can; hire Lisa.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Darren rodriguez
Deaf / hard of hearing client, facing battery charges that were false. Just signed with Ty after inquiring around with other firms. Even though I have communication issues, Ty has accommodated me and most importantly had a good attitude. I even said I was going with someone else who was cheaper and he was still very positive / encouraging and gave free advice. I ended up going with him nonetheless. patient isn’t closed yet, but confident that he will take care of it
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13 Jun, 2024 by Nestor hernandez
Great professional service! And experts! Appreciate Adrian Byrne’s help patience and being dedicated also detailed and informative of any questions and matters. I highly recommend The Byrne Law Group! I will be referring them. Thanks!
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19 May, 2024 by Omar lemus
Hola los recomiendo mucho como abogados son muy amables muy atentos me ayudaron muchísimos siempre estuvieron al pendiente de mi y de todo gracias por todo los felicito por ser muy bueno en lo que asen gracias 🙏
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23 Jul, 2024 by Darren rodriguez
Deaf / hard of hearing client, facing battery charges that were false. Just signed with Ty after inquiring around with other firms. Even though I have communication issues, Ty has accommodated me and most importantly had a good attitude. I even said I was going with someone else who was cheaper and he was still very positive / encouraging and gave free advice. I ended up going with him nonetheless. patient isn’t closed yet, but confident that he will take care of it
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13 Jun, 2024 by Nestor hernandez
Great professional service! And experts! Appreciate Adrian Byrne’s help patience and being dedicated also detailed and informative of any questions and matters. I highly recommend The Byrne Law Group! I will be referring them. Thanks!
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19 May, 2024 by Omar lemus
Hola los recomiendo mucho como abogados son muy amables muy atentos me ayudaron muchísimos siempre estuvieron al pendiente de mi y de todo gracias por todo los felicito por ser muy bueno en lo que asen gracias 🙏
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08 Oct, 2024 by Debbie smith
Mr. Harmoush did an excellent job getting my son, Steve, the settlement he deserved.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Sanah saleem
Samy is an amazing lawyer! He won my case and got me a higher settlement than i expected. He was very organized and took the burden of the case off my hands. I've referred him to others after my positive experience and would highly recommend him to everyone looking for a lawyer.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Yasir raza
We were referred to samy harmoush when we had legal issues on 2 separate occasions and he was able to come in and resolve these issues for us.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Debbie smith
Mr. Harmoush did an excellent job getting my son, Steve, the settlement he deserved.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Sanah saleem
Samy is an amazing lawyer! He won my case and got me a higher settlement than i expected. He was very organized and took the burden of the case off my hands. I've referred him to others after my positive experience and would highly recommend him to everyone looking for a lawyer.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Yasir raza
We were referred to samy harmoush when we had legal issues on 2 separate occasions and he was able to come in and resolve these issues for us.
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11 Dec, 2019 by John j. covas
Direct to the point listens carefully and gives you options - gives the client an understanding of options. He returns phone calls usually within minutes. Highly recommend Peter
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13 Nov, 2019 by Sheri bienstock
I work with Peter Haven for more than 10 years now and I find him to be smart, professional, objective, and an incredibly caring human being. I highly recommend him as a lawyer.
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02 Nov, 2019 by Isaac h
I was referred to Peter by a friend and I couldn’t be happier with choosing him as my attorney. He has helped me in my case tremendously and has been professional, prompt and supportive every step of the way. I highly recommend him and am grateful for what he has done for me.
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11 Dec, 2019 by John j. covas
Direct to the point listens carefully and gives you options - gives the client an understanding of options. He returns phone calls usually within minutes. Highly recommend Peter
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13 Nov, 2019 by Sheri bienstock
I work with Peter Haven for more than 10 years now and I find him to be smart, professional, objective, and an incredibly caring human being. I highly recommend him as a lawyer.
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02 Nov, 2019 by Isaac h
I was referred to Peter by a friend and I couldn’t be happier with choosing him as my attorney. He has helped me in my case tremendously and has been professional, prompt and supportive every step of the way. I highly recommend him and am grateful for what he has done for me.
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30 Jun, 2017 by Jeff
Joel was so inconsiderate and rude. He is awkward and cannot handle cases appropriately. He tried to make me pay up front which is NOT how any other attorneys handle this!!! Go to any other attorney!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.

Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:

  • Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
  • Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
  • Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
  • Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
  • Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
  • Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:

  • Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
  • Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
  • Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
  • Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
  • Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
  • Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
  • Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
  • Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.

The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:

  • Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
  • Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
  • Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
  • Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.

Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:

  1. What is your experience with cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs.
  3. What are the potential outcomes of my case?
    A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction.
  4. How many cases have you taken to trial?
    While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial.
  5. Who will handle my case?
    Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work.
  6. How do you communicate with your clients?
    Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.

How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer

To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
  • Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
  • Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:

  • Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
  • Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
  • List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
  • Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.

By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.

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